MPD K-9 On Road To Recovery

MPD canine Vigo is recovering in the comfort of his home after undergoing two surgeries that will keep him chasing bad guys for many years.

Earlier this month, Dr. Brian Beale with Gulf Coast Veterinarian Specialists (GCVS) performed the career-saving surgeries on two of Vigo’s knees for a discounted price. The fury officer was suffering from a partially torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), with degenerative joint disease.
 
Despite some swelling and bruising, Vigo’s partner, MPD Officer John Wiggins, says his “son” is bouncing back quickly.
 
"Vigo has surprised his doctor by already putting full pressure on a freshly-operated joint and walking on his own," said Wiggins in an
e-mail just one day after Vigo's first surgery on Tuesday, Feb. 23.

As part of his recovery, Vigo is doing a little walking, but nothing too strenuous for the next 10-14 days. The six-year-old had his second surgery on Tuesday, Feb. 23.
 
Beale stabilized the knees using a state-of-the art technique called a tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO). He used arthroscopy to make the procedure minimally-invasive, increasing the chance of success.
 
“Vigo is a very strong dog,” said Beale. “This surgery will give him a strong chance at continuing his career for many years to come. TPLO surgery is the most common surgery at our hospital.”
 
Vigo - one of MPD’s five canines that specialize in detecting bombs – is true to his breed, Belgian Malinois, in that he can be a bit of a workaholic, according to his partner.
 
“He was searching the lockers in the operating area on the way into surgery,” added Wiggins.

Sporting a special collar to prevent him licking or irritating his incision, Vigo is being forced to take it easy, so that he can get back on the job in about six months.